Real People. Real Stories. Featuring Frankfort Area News (FAN)
December 3, 2025
At BVT, we believe the best stories come from the people we serve every day. That’s why we’re spotlighting real customers who’ve experienced the difference our team makes — whether it’s solving a technical challenge, providing a strong broadband connection, or simply being there when it matters most. These aren’t just testimonials — they’re real stories from real people, and we’re proud to share them with you.
Because when you have a strong, reliable broadband connection, you have technology that works for you. Allowing you to truly live life connected — to work, community, and the moments that matter most.
Want to share your story? We’d love to hear it! Contact us today and be part of the conversation.
Keeping the Press Alive: Connie Musil’s Mission to Preserve Local News
In a time when many small-town newspapers are disappearing, Connie Musil is keeping local journalism alive and well in Frankfort, Kan. As the owner of the Frankfort Area News (FAN) for over 23 years, Connie has become a trusted voice in the community - sharing stories, preserving history, and connecting neighbors.
A Hometown Legacy
Connie (Adams) Musil grew up on a farm near Frankfort and graduated from Frankfort High School in 1976. She and her husband, Gary, a semi-retired farmer, have three children and seven grandchildren. In 2001, Connie purchased the Frankfort Area News, continuing a legacy that began in 1991 when the paper was founded by Lavonne Farrell and friends after the Frankfort Index ceased publication.
“Many of our older residents still call the FAN the Index,” Connie says with a smile. “And that’s fine with me!”
A Team Effort
The FAN is powered by a small but mighty team of part-time staff: Susan Winters, Helen Martin, and Julie Caffrey (standing left to right by Connie in the photo). All are retired women who bring creativity and dedication to the paper. “It wouldn’t be nearly as nice of a paper without them,” Connie says. Former staffer Judy Studer still steps in occasionally to lend a hand.
The Internet’s Double-Edged Sword
Like many in the publishing world, Connie has seen the internet reshape the newspaper industry. While it has introduced challenges, such as competition from online sources and shifting reader habits, it has also made the job more efficient.
“We get article leads from social media, and most of our content is emailed to us,” she explains. “Uploading pages to our printer in St. Joe is so much easier than driving them there.”
Despite the digital shift, the FAN remains proudly print-only. “Our readers still want a physical newspaper,” Connie says. “Once it’s printed, it’s permanent. Online content can be changed at any time.”
Embracing Digital Tools
Connie appreciates how the internet has streamlined her workflow. “I used to waste so much film,” she recalls. “Now, with phone cameras and email, we get photos quickly and easily.” Obituaries, legal notices, and other content are also submitted electronically, reducing errors and saving time.
Community Support Matters
While some readers have turned to social media for news, Connie is grateful for the continued support of the Frankfort community. “A small business class I took at K-State said the four cornerstones of a thriving town are the school, grocery store, bank, and newspaper,” she says. “I’m proud that Frankfort still has all four.”
Reliable Internet Makes It Possible
Connie credits Blue Valley Technologies (BVT) for helping her keep the FAN running smoothly. “BVT has always provided high-quality service at both my home and office,” she says. “I’m especially excited about the upcoming in-ground fiber optic internet—it’s going to make a big difference, especially in rural areas.”
A Grateful Heart
“I feel very thankful that a quality business like BVT is here to provide internet to our area,” Connie says. “Without reliable internet, our small communities would be in much worse shape. Thank you for what you do to keep them going.”
